Hyderabad: The process of merging the civilian areas of Secunderabad Cantonment with the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is moving very slowly. This is causing confusion and misunderstandings among local residents and leaders.
In June, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced plans to remove civilian areas from Secunderabad Cantonment and merge them with GHMC. However, since then, no further steps have been taken, and a final report on the land transfer is still pending. This delay has led to confusion and the rise of anti-merger sentiments, with slogans like “Save Cantonment” spreading on social media.
Some local leaders are holding meetings in residential areas to highlight the potential disadvantages of the merger. They argue that Secunderabad Cantonment is known for its open spaces and rich history. Merging with GHMC could lead to heavy urbanization, traffic congestion, and security concerns, especially near army establishments. They also worry that commercialization of open plots could turn the area into a “concrete jungle.” J Ramakrishna, a recently nominated member of the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB), has also pointed out these disadvantages.
On the other hand, Sanki Ravinder Babu, general secretary of Cantonment Vikas Manch, supports the merger. He believes it will bring development, self-respect, and better amenities to the citizens. He accuses anti-merger leaders of having selfish motives and misleading the people, causing further confusion due to the slow pace of the merger process.
Rajesham, president of Vimannagar Colony in Secunderabad Cantonment, supports the merger as well. He says that most residents are in favor of it because they suffer from a lack of civic amenities like proper water supply and good roads, unlike those in GHMC areas. He urges officials to speed up the merger process, seeing it as the only solution for the growth and development of Secunderabad Cantonment.
P Balaswamy, a resident of Ward 3 in Secunderabad Cantonment, shares a similar opinion, emphasizing the need for urgent action to improve the area’s living conditions.
